Peridot is one of the brightest green gemstones in the birthstone galaxy. The burst of green color comes from the presence of magnesium and iron in the silicate structure. Peridot is an olivine stone that is a combination of the minerals fayalite and forsterite. Although closer to forsterite, Peridot with a higher concentration of chromium will have a deeper color. This gem may lean from yellow-green chartreuse to olive green to nearly emerald in color. Although mostly eye clean, it may appear cloudy with milky white inclusions, giving the gem a lustrous sleepy look.

Yellow Peridot is generally more to the golden-green range than lemon yellow, but bright stones in citrine-green are often made into silver rings. On the opposite end of color, deep green Peridot has sometimes masqueraded as emeralds. This has happened throughout history to notables such as some worn by Cleopatra, and was even given the name “emerald of the evening” by ancient Roman collectors. This was due to the fact that the glassy luster of Peridot looked just as remarkable in artificial light as in natural sunlight. A closer look at the coveted treasure troves may prove some emeralds to actually be luxuriously green Peridot.

Beautiful Peridot is the August birthstone, and with good reason. The natural dazzle of green symbolizes life and goes well with summer colors of oranges, yellows, peaches, and shimmering blues. This makes it ideal for use with quartzes, citrine, sapphires, and tangerine stones like fire opal and brilliant tourmalines. Peridot is cut into every shape available, and is most welcome in teardrop and emerald cuts to show off its remarkable faceting ability. This versatility makes it highly valued for use in earrings, rings, pendants, bracelets, and with both silver and gold settings.